When building a Bearbrick collection, the first major decision is whether to concentrate on 400% or 1000% figures—or both. Here's the honest investment and display case for each.
The 400% Case
Size: 28cm (approximately 11 inches). Fits on shelves, desktops, and in display cases. Easy to display multiples.
Price: $80–$800 retail depending on edition. Secondary market for artist collaboration editions: $200–$3,000.
Investment verdict: Better for building breadth. You can own 5–10 interesting artist collaborations for the cost of one 1000%. Appreciation is real but slower than 1000% premium editions.
The 1000% Case
Size: 70cm (approximately 28 inches). A floor piece or major display surface anchor. Makes an unmistakable statement.
Price: $200–$3,000+ retail. Secondary market for artist collaborations: $1,000–$50,000+.
Investment verdict: Better for depth. One exceptional 1000% KAWS or Murakami collaboration can outperform an entire 400% collection. Higher entry cost, but the upside ceiling is much higher.
The Hybrid Strategy
Most serious collectors do both: multiple 400% for breadth, variety, and display flexibility; one to three 1000% as the collection's investment anchors. The 1000% figures are the ones that appreciate most dramatically when demand surges.
Which Artist Collaborations to Target
- Best long-term holds: KAWS, Takashi Murakami, Futura 2000, Keith Haring estate
- Strong mid-term holds: Daniel Arsham, Kaws, Cleon Peterson
- For display only: Brand collaborations (streetwear, sports teams)—hold value but limited appreciation
Browse Bearbrick 400% and 1000% figures at Gauntlet Gallery.
